UPDATE 2:33pm EST: Vehicle driven into building. Driver engaged security. Driver is dead.
ZERO KIDS INJURED. Lead security staff member was hit by the vehicle, transported to hospital and is expected to be OK.
UPDATE 2:15pm EST: Shooter was shot by onsite security. He rammed his vehicle into the building and engaged into a shootout. Body is burned as the vehicle is on fire inside of the synagogue.
UPDATE: Suspect IS confirmed dead.
West Bloomfield Township, MI – Authorities say an active shooting incident is underway near Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, prompting a large police response and warnings for the public to avoid the area.
According to the Michigan State Police, troopers responded around 12:30 p.m. Thursday to reports of an active shooting at 5725 Walnut Lake Road, the address for Temple Israel. State police confirmed they are aware of the incident and said the situation is ongoing as law enforcement works to secure the scene.
Police are asking community members to stay away from the area to allow emergency responders to operate safely. Authorities also said troopers are increasing patrols at other places of worship across the district as a precaution while the situation unfolds.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she is closely monitoring the situation and that state officials are working with law enforcement to gather more information.
“I am tracking reports of an active shooting at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. We are working with Michigan State Police to get more information,” Whitmer said in a statement.
“This is heartbreaking. Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace. Antisemitism and violence have no place in Michigan. I am hoping for everyone’s safety,” the governor said, while also thanking law enforcement for their swift response.
Temple Israel, located in West Bloomfield Township in Oakland County, is one of the largest Jewish congregations in Michigan. Officials have not yet released confirmed details about injuries or whether a suspect has been taken into custody.
This is a developing story, and New Media Detroit will continue monitoring updates from the Michigan State Police and local authorities as more information becomes available.
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